Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has faulted President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and lawmakers. He said the move is “not worth celebrating.”
Rivers State Political Crisis
On March 18, 2025, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. The action followed a power tussle between Fubara and lawmakers loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the state House of Assembly for six months. He then appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) as sole administrator.
The decision divided opinion. Supporters called it pragmatic. Critics said it violated the Constitution.
Fubara’s Reconciliation Efforts
During his suspension, Fubara met Tinubu twice behind closed doors, including a visit to the President in Lagos on June 3.
He also reconciled with Wike. Both men attended events together, and Wike later confirmed that their rift had been resolved.
Tinubu Ends Emergency Rule
On September 17, 2025, Tinubu lifted the emergency rule. He directed Fubara, Odu, and the lawmakers to return to work on September 18.
Atiku’s Response
Atiku reacted on Thursday via his official X account. He said lifting the suspension does not erase its illegality.
“The suspension was unconstitutional when it was imposed six months ago and remains illegal today,” he wrote.
He accused Tinubu of abusing power. According to him, the Rivers crisis reflects “the dictatorship of the Tinubu administration.”
